FREDERICTON (CNB) – The following message was issued by Social Development Minister Sue Stultz, who is also minister responsible for seniors, housing and community non-profit organizations, in recognition of the International Day of Older Persons, Saturday, Oct. 1:

This year, the theme of International Day of Older Persons focuses on the opportunities and challenges presented by global aging. By 2050, nearly one in five people in developing countries will be older than 60.

As with other governments around the world, our province is working to develop policies to deal with the population shift. Our goal is to work with our senior citizens to make sure New Brunswick grows stronger through economic and social policy. With the input and consultation of our seniors, we can build a province ready to meet the demands of a changing future.

Global aging will have an effect on our society, the economy and the workforce. With life expectancy on the rise, pension and health-care reforms, later retirement, government budgets, living standards and a new emerging family structure will become leading topics for discussion. Grey power has the potential to become the fabric of nations.

At the community level, age-friendly initiatives will be created to serve an older public. Transportation and recreation services, residential facilities, business, arts and culture will be focused on seniors. Communities will be asking what they can do to meet the needs of the older generation.

While many seniors enjoy volunteer work, others may choose to take part in paid activities to supplement their income. Seniors wishing to postpone retirement will likely be encouraged to do so to help meet workforce demands.

Many New Brunswick seniors are healthy and active and live independently. They continue to contribute to the well-being of our province.

The International Day of Older Persons gives each of us a reason to think about the future reality; about growing older ourselves; and what we can do to support the seniors in our lives today. All of our seniors deserve our respect each and every day of the year.

The International Day of Older Persons was first observed by the general assembly of the United Nations on Oct. 1, 1991. Oct. 1 is also recognized as National Seniors' Day in Canada.


30-09-11